Cuba reopens professional boxing after a ban that spanned six decades. This historic decision, announced in April 2022, marks a profound change in the country’s sports policy and opens a new era for Cuban boxers.
Cuba reopens professional boxing
The ban was imposed in 1962, when Fidel Castro’s government considered that professional boxing promoted corruption and profit over clean sport. Since then, many elite boxers, having no other choice, defected to continue their careers outside the country.
Now, with the backing of the Cuban Boxing Federation and the promoter Golden Ring Promotions, a new path has been charted. “We studied in depth what is happening in the world of professional boxing and made the decision to take this step,” explained Alberto Puig de la Barca, president of the federation.
Among the figures spearheading this comeback are Olympic champions Julio César La Cruz and Arlen López.
La Cruz has expressed his excitement for this opportunity, while Lopez stresses that this change could improve the living conditions of boxers within the country.
The return of professional boxing not only honors the rich tradition of the sport on the island, but also represents an opportunity for new generations to compete without leaving their country.
Cuban boxing is ready to shine again on the world stage, this time with the flag flying high and official backing.
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